The Old Priory

The Old Priory is a beautifully restored Cotswold manor house situated on the site of one of the largest Roman Villas in England. The present house has origins that go back to the early 16th century though much evident today is the work of 19th century architects when the house was largely remodelled to provide for a supremely comfortable family home.

The history of The Old Priory is fascinating in as much as it chronicles and reflects the development of this area which has a rich and diverse heritage. The now covered remains of the Roman Villa which extend over more than 2 acres and is remarkably preserved (and recorded in significant detail in a beautifully bound late 18th century account), though has not been exposed since 1973. Although known as The Old Priory for more than 200 years it is believed that any specific ecclesiastical associations were pre reformation. Elements of the Roman Villa were used and can be seen in the fabric of the existing house.

No less impressive is the setting which places the house in an enviable situation close to the thriving market towns of Stroud and Nailsworth and yet with bucolic views principally of ones own land which extends to some 90 acres.

The current house is planned around an H shape with the principal entertaining space situated on a raised ground floor. The large vaulted ceilinged hall gives a measure of the style and overall scale of the rest of the house. From the hall the drawing room, dining room, and a professional kitchen, all lead, making it an ideal space in which to entertain. The library and study are adjacent.

The large and well-arranged family kitchen is situated on the ground floor and leads directly onto the garden and a terrace. The whole of this floor is everyone’s dream space with traditional style boot rooms, pantry and laundry room along with a cellar.

The first floor is perfectly arranged for family and guests although a separate guest house across the courtyard is always handy. The generous principal bedroom and bathroom occupies a wing of the house with a second bedroom and bathroom nearby that also hides a secret tower room. Three further bedrooms and three further bathrooms complete the ideal arrangement.